The Matthews 1'-3' Telescoping Hanger with C-Clamp is a versatile and adjustable rigging tool designed for the professional film and television grip department. Its primary function is to suspend lighting fixtures, small scenic elements, or diffusion material from overhead structures such as grid pipes, trusses, or exposed building beams. The core of the unit is a telescoping aluminum tube that extends from a compact, stored length of approximately one foot to a fully extended length of three feet, providing a significant range of vertical adjustment. This allows the user to precisely fine-tune the hanging height of the attached equipment after the clamp is secured overhead, a critical feature for achieving exact lighting angles and clearing obstacles.

The device is terminated at its top end with a heavy-duty, all-steel C-clamp. This clamp features a standard pipe jaw designed to securely grip round or square tubing ranging from approximately 1/2 inch to 2 inches in diameter. It is operated by a large, knurled pressure screw with a swiveling foot to prevent marring the pipe, and incorporates a safety locking screw to prevent accidental loosening—a fundamental safety requirement on set. At the bottom end of the telescoping tube, a standard 5/8-inch (16mm) "baby" pin receiver is mounted. This industry-standard fitting allows for the quick attachment and secure mounting of virtually any professional lighting fixture, flag arm, or accessory that utilizes a matching spud.

Constructed from lightweight yet strong aluminum and steel, the hanger is designed for durability and ease of use under demanding production conditions. The telescoping sections lock firmly in place with a positive locking pin or a large thumbscrew, ensuring the extended length remains rigid when loaded. This tool is indispensable for creating flexible and temporary overhead rigging points, enabling grips and gaffers to safely and efficiently hang equipment at the exact required height without the need for multiple fixed-length hangers. It embodies the practicality and adjustability necessary for dynamic set lighting, where speed and precision are equally important.